Salvia azurea (Azure Blue Sage)

Also known as Azure Sage, Sky Blue Sage or Pitcher Sage. Azure Blue Sage is a clump-forming perennial sporting azure blue flowers from mid-summer to fall. It is drought-tolerant once established and it may only need watering in an extended drought. It needs good drainage. It typically grows 2-5 ft tall, but can be cut back to half its size in mid –summer to control size and re-invigorate the plant to become bushier with more blooms. It tolerates a range of soil types, including poor soil, but it does not do well in heavy clay. Azure Blue Sage fits perfectly in a cottage or meadow garden, rock garden, planted en masse or as a focal point. It pairs well with Maximilian Sunflower, various red-flowering sages as well as Shrubby Boneset and ornamental grasses, such as Gulf Muhly, Lindheimer Muhly or Mexican Feather Grass.   AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low Sun exposure Full sun to part shade Bloom color Azure blue Bloom time Mid-summer to fall Mature height 2-5 ft Mature spread 1-3 ft Attracts Butterflies, bees Notes Needs good drainage. Native bee and bumble bee friendly.   DISTRIBUTION MAPS  USDA MAP BONAP MAP  Present in state  Present in county and native  Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state           Not present in state  Present and rare, native in county  Previously present, now extinct  Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)